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Science News Archive 2016 - Page 237


Page 237 of 423

Spinning electrons yield positrons for research

Using the Continuous Electron Beam Accelerator Facility (CEBAF), researchers have demonstrated a method to produce polarized positrons from spinning electrons. This technique could enable new research in advanced materials and offer a new avenue for producing polarized positron beams for proposed experiments. The team successfully tran...

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·DateJun 1, 2016

Discovery of new IRAP inhibitors to improve cognitive functions

Researchers have discovered three new compounds that inhibit insulin-regulated aminopeptidase (IRAP), showing promise in improving cognitive functions in animal models. The inhibitors block human IRAP at low concentrations with rapid reversibility.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalAssay and Drug Development Technologies·DateJun 1, 2016
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Springer to launch the Journal of Cognitive Enhancement

The Journal of Cognitive Enhancement will investigate how social cognitive processes can be enhanced through various methods, including meditation, video games, and cognitive training. Research in this area aims to delay cognitive decline in the elderly, reducing welfare costs and improving overall quality of life.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Cognitive Enhancement·DateJun 1, 2016

The deadly toxin acrolein has a useful biological role

Researchers at RIKEN discovered that acrolein can combine with polyamines to form substances that prevent the aggregation of amyloid-beta peptides, a process linked to Alzheimer's disease. The findings suggest that acrolein may have an anti-fibrillation effect, potentially influencing the progression of neurological disorders.

SourceRIKEN·JournalAdvanced Science·DateJun 1, 2016

Study highlights 'emotional labor' of college student-athletes

A recent study highlights the emotional labor required of collegiate student-athletes, leaving them feeling powerless, frustrated, and nervous. The study emphasizes the need for universities to prepare their student-athletes with communication skills to address this pressure.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalCommunication & Sport·DateJun 1, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Flu-like symptoms in pregnant woman could affect baby

A new study found that viral infections during pregnancy can lead to abnormal fetal brain development, increasing the risk of conditions like autism and schizophrenia. By manipulating serotonin levels, researchers were able to normalize fetal forebrain development and reduce this risk.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateJun 1, 2016

CD34+ cell treatment reduced angina frequency for 'no option' patients

A two-year clinical study found that CD34+ cells significantly reduced angina frequency in patients resistant to other therapies. The treatment demonstrated persistent improvement in angina and a trend towards decreasing major cardiac events, offering new treatment options for 'no option' patients.

SourceCell Transplantation Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair·JournalCell Transplantation·DateJun 1, 2016
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Study shows that black men with more West African genes have lower risk of obesity

A recent study published in Frontiers in Genetics found that black men with more genetic variants descended from West Africa tend to have a lower waist circumference and waist-hip ratio, indicating less central adiposity. This suggests that certain genes may provide partial protection against obesity.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalFrontiers in Genetics·DateJun 1, 2016

Don't cut the tags off yet

A meta-analytic review found that lenient return policies increase purchases more than they increase returns. Retailers may benefit from creating complex return policies varying along multiple dimensions to balance these concerns.

SourceJournal of Retailing at New York University·JournalJournal of Retailing·DateJun 1, 2016

NIH awards Brown University $11.5 million for computational biology research

The National Institutes of Health has awarded Brown University a five-year, $11.5 million grant to expand its research in computational biology. The new Center of Biomedical Research Excellence (COBRE) will support early career faculty members as they tackle genomics underlying diseases such as cancer and preeclampsia. Researchers will...

SourceBrown University·DateJun 1, 2016

Cooler and wetter: Study links irrigation to inaccurate climate perception

A recent study by the University of Vermont found that irrigation systems in wine-producing regions of New Zealand led farmers to perceive their local area as cooler and wetter than it actually is. This misperception can slow efforts to address climate change, according to the research.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalGlobal Environmental Change·DateJun 1, 2016

Online training helps prevent depression

A six-week online training course called GET.ON has been shown to reduce the risk of developing depression in people at increased risk. The study found that 27% of those who completed the course developed depression, compared to 41% of those who did not receive the training.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalJAMA·DateJun 1, 2016
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

New study of the memory through optogenetics

A new study using optogenetics has increased long-term memory in mice with fear disorders, such as phobias and post-traumatic stress disorder. The technique, tested in two mouse populations, improved memory recall and reduced fear responses, offering potential therapeutic targets for these conditions.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalNeuropsychopharmacology·DateJun 1, 2016

Scientists find genetic cause of multiple sclerosis

Scientists have discovered a single genetic mutation that causes multiple sclerosis in two-thirds of those affected, providing a potential target for therapies. The mutation leads to a defective protein that disrupts communication between the brain and body, resulting in vision problems, muscle weakness, and cognitive impairments.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalNeuron·DateJun 1, 2016

West African genes lower the risk of obesity in men, suggests study

African American men with high West African genetic ancestry have lower waist circumference and waist-hip ratio, indicating reduced central adiposity. In contrast, African American women do not show a similar association, suggesting that genes from West Africa may offer protection against obesity in men but not women.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Genetics·DateJun 1, 2016

Studies examine use of newer blood test to help identify or rule-out heart attack

Two studies found that a high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I assay can accurately diagnose or rule out heart attacks in patients with chest pain. The tests identified 19% of patients as potentially suitable for immediate discharge and had high diagnostic performance in excluding heart attacks. A new algorithm using this test showed rap...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateJun 1, 2016
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Employers want college grads to have strong oral skills, ISU study finds

A recent Iowa State University study found that employers prioritize oral communication skills in new college graduates, ranking them above other forms of communication. The study suggests that colleges should adopt a multimodal teaching approach to prepare students for various job requirements.

SourceIowa State University·JournalBusiness and Professional Communication Quarterly·DateJun 1, 2016

Cancer studies should include overweight, elderly mice

Incorporating laboratory mice that are old and obese into immunotherapy treatments for cancer can hasten therapeutic breakthroughs. The use of young, healthy mice is often preferred, but this approach may not accurately reflect the human immune system's response to treatment.

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalTrends in Immunology·DateMay 31, 2016
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

A jolt from the blue: Rays provide power for an electric generator

Researchers from RIKEN Quantitative Biology Center create a new type of electricity generator based on the electric organs of torpedoes, achieving peak voltages and currents comparable to conventional systems. The breakthrough could lead to a future high-efficiency power generator that uses ATP directly.

SourceRIKEN·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 31, 2016

Brain structure that tracks negative events backfires in depression

A UCL study found that the habenula, a region that responds to bad experiences, functions abnormally in people with depression. In healthy adults, this region activates when expecting aversive events, but in depressed individuals, it decreases activation. The study suggests the theory on the habenula's role in depression needs rethinking.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateMay 31, 2016

Many patients continue using opioids months after joint replacement

A study of 574 patients undergoing knee or hip replacement surgery found that 30% were taking opioids prior to surgery, with 35% continuing to take them six months later. High-dose opioids and higher pain scores on the day of surgery were associated with persistent opioid use.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPain·DateMay 31, 2016

Study paves way for new therapies in fight against calcium disorders

Researchers at Georgia State University discover the molecular basis of human diseases resulting from CaSR mutations, potentially leading to new therapies for hypocalcemia and Alzheimer's disease. The study also identifies a small molecule as a lead compound for CaSR regulators.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 31, 2016

Measuring the Milky Way: 1 massive problem, 1 new solution

PhD candidate Gwendolyn Eadie has developed a method to estimate the mass of the Milky Way using globular cluster velocities. This approach predicts the mass contained within any distance from the center of the galaxy, providing new insights into the dark matter component.

SourceMcMaster University·DateMay 31, 2016
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Autism care improved, diagnosis time shortened by new MU program

A new MU program trains primary care providers to screen and manage autism spectrum disorders, improving confidence and utilization of resources. Early diagnosis is critical for children with autism, and the program aims to reduce disparities for rural and underserved children.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalClinical Pediatrics·DateMay 31, 2016

Antipsychotic prescribing trends in youths with autism and intellectual disability

A meta-analysis of 39 studies found that one in ten youths treated with an antipsychotic have autism spectrum disorder or intellectual disability. The study suggests that more youths with autism or intellectual disability have received antipsychotics, raising concerns over their efficacy and potential side effects.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateMay 31, 2016

Calcium signals balance the body's response to infection against potential for self-attack

Researchers found that a specific type of calcium-based signal regulates the production of immune cells that drive and ramp down the body's massive reaction to invading organisms. The study suggests that fine-tuning calcium signals may enhance immune responses to influenza vaccines and treat chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalImmunity·DateMay 31, 2016
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

A new 'Einstein ring' is discovered

Astronomers have discovered a new 'Canarias Einstein ring', a rare and unusual phenomenon that provides insight into the composition of distant galaxies. The discovery was made using data from the Gran Telescopio CANARIAS (GTC) and offers valuable information about the structure of gravitational fields and dark matter in galaxy lenses.

SourceInstituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC)·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateMay 31, 2016

It pays to increase energy consumption

Researchers at Aarhus University found that using 10% more energy for heating can save 10% on the bill while reducing carbon dioxide emission. They developed an intelligent management system to optimize building operations, predicting energy prices and environmental impact.

SourceAarhus University·JournalEnergy and Buildings·DateMay 31, 2016

Implanted neuroprosthesis improves walking ability in stroke patient

A surgically implanted neuroprosthesis has led to substantial improvement in walking speed and distance for a patient with limited mobility after a stroke. The device stimulates coordinated activity of hip, knee, and ankle muscles, resulting in a more symmetrical and dynamic gait.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation·DateMay 31, 2016
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Sparrows with unfaithful 'wives' care less for their young

A new study reveals that male sparrows can distinguish between their faithful and unfaithful partners. When paired with an unfaithful female, males provide less food for their chicks. The research suggests that males make this decision based on the partner's behavior during fertile periods rather than detecting which chicks are theirs.

SourceImperial College London·JournalThe American Naturalist·DateMay 31, 2016

Algorithm could help detect and reduce power grid faults

Researchers at Binghamton University have developed an algorithm using Singular Spectrum Analysis (SSA) to quickly detect and locate power grid faults, providing a promising solution for authorities to remotely identify issues before they cause prolonged outages or equipment damage.

SourceBinghamton University·DateMay 31, 2016
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

New blood test for the detection of bovine TB

Researchers at the University of Nottingham have developed a new blood test that detects Mycobacteria in blood with high sensitivity. The test delivers results within 48 hours and has been shown to detect the bacterium M. bovis in cattle diagnosed with bovine tuberculosis (bTB) with high accuracy.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalVirulence·DateMay 31, 2016

Female smokers more likely to kick the habit by 'timing' their quit date with their menstrual cycle

A study found that women who time their quit smoking with optimal days in their menstrual cycle may have better success. The researchers discovered that during the follicular phase, brain regions that help control behavior are less connected to those signaling reward, making it harder for women to resist smoking cues.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalBiology of Sex Differences·DateMay 31, 2016

Leaving the electrical grid in the Upper Peninsula

A new study by Michigan Tech engineers and sociologists reveals that leaving the electrical grid is a viable option for the majority of seasonal households (92%) and single-family owner-occupied households (65%). Solar-hybrid systems, combining solar power with cogeneration and battery storage, can overcome cloudy winter days. The stud...

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalEnergy Policy·DateMay 31, 2016
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Readmissions after complex cancer operations vary with institution type and patient cohort

A new study found that readmission rates after complex cancer operations are higher in hospitals serving vulnerable populations, such as those with high Medicaid patients or serving as safety nets. The study suggests that payment penalties tied to readmissions may create unintended consequences on financially strained institutions.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateMay 31, 2016

'Super Mario Brothers' is harder than NP-hard

Researchers show that Super Mario Brothers' level completion can be constructed to be PSPACE-hard, a class of problems considered even harder than NP. This suggests that completing a difficult level in Super Mario Brothers may require an exponential amount of time and computational effort.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateMay 31, 2016

Studying life on the rocks

A team of scientists has developed an apparatus to measure the behavior of ice under various external forces. The device can be used to study both terrestrial glaciers and icy satellite bodies, providing insights into potential life-supporting oceans beneath the ice.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateMay 31, 2016

Bisexual college students most vulnerable to sexual assault

A new study published in Violence and Gender journal found that nearly 2 of every 5 bisexual female college students were victims of sexual assault. Greek life was identified as a strong factor linked to higher prevalence of sexual assault for most student groups.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalViolence and Gender·DateMay 31, 2016
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

New findings linking abnormalities in circadian rhythms to neurochemical to changes in specific neurotransmitters

Researchers at McLean Hospital discovered that individuals with bipolar disorder have altered somatostatin expression in the brain's amygdala, which regulates anxiety and stress response. This altered circadian function is linked to severity of depression and anxiety symptoms, providing potential neural correlates for circadian rhythm ...

SourceMcLean Hospital·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateMay 31, 2016

Researchers create first 3-D mathematical model of uterine contractions

A team of researchers at Washington University in St. Louis has developed the first 3D multiscale mathematical model of uterine contractions, which may aid in predicting preterm birth. The model precisely replicates the electrical activity in the uterus during a contraction using data from magnetomyography measurements.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 31, 2016

Does obesity lead to more nursing home admission and a lower quality of care?

A study examining obese older adults in nursing homes found that those with higher body mass indexes were more likely to be admitted to facilities with deficiencies in care. Nearly 22% of admitted residents were obese, with morbidly obese individuals facing even greater challenges.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateMay 31, 2016
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Leaky blood-brain barrier linked to Alzheimer's disease

A new study published in Radiology found increased blood-brain barrier permeability in people with early Alzheimer's disease. The researchers used contrast-enhanced MRI to identify leakages in the BBB, which could represent a key mechanism in the early stages of the disease.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateMay 31, 2016

How long have I got? The response influences quality of end-of-life care

A study by University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work researchers examines the perceptions and preferences of older Latinos with advanced cancer regarding news on their diagnosis or prognosis. The investigation aims to identify culturally appropriate training for physicians and providers, promoting quality end-of-life care.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateMay 31, 2016